Live Mortar Round Discovered in Sacramento Yard

Bomb squad and Air Force respond to remove and destroy the unexploded ordnance

Apr. 6, 2026 at 5:37pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a partially buried, rusted metal object against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the dangerous discovery of a live mortar round in a suburban yard.The discovery of a live mortar round in a Sacramento yard underscores the ongoing threat of unexploded ordnance in the region.Today in Sacramento

A homeowner's son in North Sacramento uncovered what appeared to be a live 81 mm mortar round while digging in the yard over the weekend. The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office evacuated nearby residents and called in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, who confirmed the item was a live mortar. The U.S. Air Force was also called in, and crews were able to safely remove and destroy the unexploded ordnance.

Why it matters

The discovery of live ordnance in a residential yard raises public safety concerns, as unexploded munitions can pose a serious threat if not properly handled. This incident also highlights the ongoing legacy of military activity in the region, as similar finds have occurred in the area for years following a 1973 yard disaster in Roseville.

The details

On Sunday, a homeowner's son in North Sacramento uncovered what appeared to be a mortar round while digging in the yard. The Sacramento County Sheriff's Office responded, evacuated nearby residents, and called in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team. The item was confirmed to be a live 81 mm mortar, and the U.S. Air Force was also called in to assist with the removal and destruction of the unexploded ordnance.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Sacramento County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the discovery of the live mortar round and coordinated the evacuation and disposal efforts.

U.S. Air Force

The military branch that was called in to assist with the removal and destruction of the live mortar round.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by unexploded ordnance, even in residential areas, and the importance of proper handling and disposal procedures to ensure public safety.